As the saying goes, you wait ages for a bus and then two come along at once.

It appears the same can be said for football boycotts.

Until last season, I had never associated boycotts with lower league football as I - like many others - would blindly follow my side week in, week out regardless of form or circumstance.

Then along came the much heralded (by EFL chief executive, Shaun Harvey at least) revamped EFL trophy and everything changed.

There has been no greater indicator of the outright hostility and displeasure to the changes made to the EFL Trophy than the numbers going through the turnstiles – or, more accurately, the distinct lack of numbers going through the turnstiles.

Many fans were dismayed at the sudden introduction of academy sides from a host of Premier Leagues and Championship clubs into the re-formatted competition.

Fans were quick to rally and voice their displeasure as calls for a boycott of games gathered pace.

Many fans stood by their threat and attendances plummeted across the country.

The lack of appetite to see Premier League youngster pit their wits against established Football League clubs and players was reflected when only 609 fans attended Town’s game against Leicester City’s young guns.

Grimsby Town's clash with Leicester City in the competition last year saw just 609 fans turn out at Blundell Park. (Image: Rick Byrne)

In the week that sees us fulfil our final fixture of this year’s competition, and the end of the boycott for many, the Mariners Trust have announced plans for a boycott of their own.

As you will no doubt recall, back in August it was alleged that female supporters were asked to “lift up their tops to show their bras” ahead of Town’s fixture at Stevenage.

As a result of the accusations made and the distinct lack of action taken by Stevenage themselves and the EFL – the competitions governing body, the Trust are now calling for a boycott of next season’s game.

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I personally think the Trust’s stance highlights the seriousness of the accusations made, but I can’t help but wonder if it will ultimately continue to fall on deaf ears at the EFL and whether an empty away end would actually do more harm to Town’s performance on the day than it does to Stevenage themselves.

One think that Town fans have become famous for in recent seasons is for how they rally together in response of perceived injustice.

I wonder if there is an alternative short of a boycott that could draw greater attention to the EFL and their lack of action.

One example was when Town fans proved last season at Barnet that they won’t tolerate being mistreated and will instead always find a way to have a good time and back their team.

Clarification

An earlier version of this article contained some out-dated information regarding player selection criteria for the Checkatrade Trophy

We are happy to clarify this here, with the current guidelines, which show an increased flexibility around team selection.